Jon Jones Pleads Guilty In Hit and Run ... Gets 18 Months Probation

9/29/2015 8:21 AM PDT

Jon Jones has just pled guilty to one count of leaving the scene of an accident ... stemming from an incident in April ... and was sentenced to 18 months probation.

Jones entered the plea in an Albuquerque courtroom moments ago. As part of the deal, Jones has been ordered to make 72 appearances with kids groups -- to educate children about making good decisions in life.

Jones' lawyer says the fighter takes "full responsibility" for his actions and did everything he possibly could to make things right with the victim. Lawyer calls the incident an "awful, awful mistake."

As we previously reported, Jones struck another vehicle -- injuring a pregnant woman -- and then bolted from the scene on foot.

Jones' lawyer says the victim has fully recovered from her injuries.

The lawyer says the incident was a "wake up call" for Jones.

Jon's lawyer is asking the judge to allow Jones to carry one firearm because he's concerned about his personal safety.

Jones addressed the court personally ... saying, "I am here to accept full responsibility for what happened for my actions ... I'm hoping that you give me an opportunity to redeem myself."

Jones has been granted a conditional discharge, which means if he meets the conditions the judge sets, he will not be convicted of a felony. Translation -- keep your nose clean.

9:25 AM PT -- Jones just issued a statement to TMZ Sports:

"With regards to today's decision made by the court, I am very happy to now be able to put this incident behind me.

My actions have caused pain and inconvenience in the lives of others and for that I am truly sorry and I accept full responsibility. I have been working hard during this time away from my sport to grow and mature as a man and to ensure that nothing like this happens again.

I have learned a great deal from this situation and I am determined to emerge a better person because of it. I apologize to those who were affected by my actions in this incident and I am hopeful that I will be given the opportunity to redeem myself in the eyes of the public, my family and friends as well as my supporters.

I am not sure what the future holds for me but I plan to continue to do the work needed to be productive and successful in every aspect of my life."